Magical and nourishing – explore and unwind at these relaxing natural hot springs around New Zealand.

If you’re needing a dose of relaxation with the help of nature’s touch, you may be needing to float in a dreamy 38-deree hot pool.

Faster than you can say ‘Kia Ora’, for future travel inspiration or an upcoming trip, get that much-needed break with some watery wellness thanks to our guide to the best natural hot springs in New Zealand of 2023!

Onsen

Queenstown is renowned for being the world’s adventure capital, but a mere 10-minute drive from its centre lies one of the top hot pools in New Zealand: Onsen. Situated on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Shotover River Canyon, Onsen’s Japanese-inspired cedar tubs allow you to soak up the breathtaking scenery of the surrounding alpines and are the best vantage point to watch the jet boats on the river below. The tubs are heated to approximately 38.5 degrees, and each session allows for up to 60 minutes of relaxation complimented with a free drink and snack. Capturing pure water from the surrounding mountains, they’re hot and steamy on snowy days, warm on rainy days, whilst cool and shady during summer – making them a perfect pitstop for visitors year-round.

Onsen | 162 Arthurs Point Rd, Arthurs Point, Queenstown 9371, New Zealand

Polynesian Spa

Often recognised as one of the top health spas in the world, this hot spring in New Zealand, Polynesian Spa, provides a luxurious retreat on the tranquil shores of North Island’s Lake Rotorua. All 28 hot pools give visitors exclusive access to both acidic and alkaline mineral waters, with the acidic springs said to relieve tired muscles, aches and pains; and the alkaline springs renowned for properties that nourish the skin. Simply bask in the wellness sourced from Rotorua’s very own backyard or, rejuvenate with a selection of your choice from their decadent spa menu of therapies infused with ancient healing practices – you’ll be leaving anew either way.

Polynesian Spa | 1000 Hinemoa St, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Hanmer Springs

Less than a two-hour drive from Christchurch is a relaxing destination where the sound of water fuses with the chirps of bellbirds nestled in native kōwhai gardens. You can soak your worries away at its private thermal pools, explore the health spa, let off some steam at the saunas or take things up a notch on New Zealand’s largest aquatic thrill ride. Also featuring a large children’s activities area and an onsite cafe offering a delectable casual dining menu (including fresh pizza baked in a gas-fire oven right in front of you), Hanmer Springs has something to offer for solo travellers, couples and families alike.

Hanmer Springs | 42 Amuri Ave, Hanmer Springs 7334, New Zealand

Tekapo Springs

Located in the charming Lake Tekapo and surrounded by mountains at the heart of New Zealand’s South Island is a haven for families seeking the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. One of the best family-friendly hot pools in New Zealand, here you can pretend you’re on Survivor with its giant inflatable obstacle course including a plunging 150-metre waterslide, an ice skating rink to test your skills or soft pillowy slopes to ride down all before sunset. Once the kids are safely tucked in, join New Zealand’s adults-only guided hot pools and stargazing experience as you lay on a floating hammock in Tekapo Springs’ soul-warming waters, soak in the stars of Aoraki Mackenzie Dark Sky Reserve, and listen to stories of New Zealand legends. One of the best hot pools in New Zealand!

Tekapo Springs | 6 Lakeside Dr, Lake Tekapo 7999, New Zealand

The Lost Spring

Hidden in the scenic folds of Coromandel Peninsula only a two-and-a-half hour drive from Auckland, The Lost Spring is a lush jungle-like setting speckled with hot pools filled with 16,000 year-old geothermal mineral water. One of the best natural hot springs in New Zealand, guests can marvel at crystals and stalactites as they swim through an amethyst cave, or luxuriate in the revitalising waters of the thermal pools with the option of having drinks and grazing platters delivered right to the poolside. Retreat from the stresses of the everyday in an island-style tree-top day spa, or celebrate a loved one’s special day by choosing from The Lost Spring’s wide range of packages, including one created just for mums-to-be!

The Lost Spring | 121A Cook Dr, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand

If boutique accommodation is more your style, tuck in at these 10 Best Luxury Hotels and Resorts around New Zealand. Or, unwind at these 6 Best Wellness Retreats in Australia.

Feature Image: Photographed by Naruedom Yaempongsa. Image via Shutterstock.

This article was first published on July 22 2021. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on June 01 2023.